Chapter 1: Understanding testosterone and his role in men’s health
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone related to the androgen group. It plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of many physiological functions in men, starting from intrauterine development to a very old age. Understanding these functions is necessary to realize the consequences of a low level of testosterone and, accordingly, for a conscious choice of funds aimed at increasing it.
1.1 The main functions of testosterone:
- Development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics: Testosterone is responsible for the development of the male genital organs, the formation of secondary sexual characteristics, such as hair growth on the face and body, coarsening of the voice, as well as for the development of skeletal muscles. During puberty, a sharp jump in the level of testosterone leads to the formation of male physique.
- Reproductive function: Testosterone is necessary for spermatogenesis – the process of formation of sperm in the testicles. The low level of testosterone can lead to a decrease in the quantity and quality of sperm, which negatively affects fertility. In addition, he plays an important role in maintaining libido and erectile function.
- Bone fabric: Testosterone helps to increase the density of bones and prevents the development of osteoporosis. The low level of the hormone increases the risk of fractures and other problems with bones. It stimulates the activity of osteoblasts – cells responsible for the formation of bone tissue.
- Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone is an anabolic hormone that stimulates the synthesis of protein and promotes the growth of muscle mass. It also improves muscle strength and endurance. Athletes often strive to maintain the optimal level of testosterone to increase sports results.
- Energy and general well -being: Testosterone affects the level of energy, mood and overall well -being. A low hormone level can lead to fatigue, irritability, depression and a decrease in motivation. It is involved in the regulation of the level of glucose in the blood and the metabolism of fat.
- Cardiovascular system: Studies show that the normal level of testosterone can have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. However, high doses of exogenous testosterone (for example, with anabolic steroids) can have the opposite effect.
- Cognitive functions: Testosterone plays a role in cognitive functions, such as memory, concentration of attention and spatial thinking. A low hormone level can negatively affect these functions.
1.2 reasons for reducing testosterone levels:
The level of testosterone naturally decreases with age, starting about 30 years. However, there are other factors that can help reduce testosterone levels at any age:
- Age: With age, the production of testosterone in the testicles is gradually declining. This is a natural process called age -related hypogonadism.
- Chronic diseases: Some chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, chronic kidney disease and liver disease, can negatively affect testosterone production.
- Medication: Some drugs, such as opioid analgesics, corticosteroids and antidepressants, can reduce testosterone levels.
- Obesity: Overweight, especially abdominal obesity, can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. The adipose tissue contains an enzyme aromatase that turns testosterone into estrogen (female sex hormone).
- Chronic stress: Chronic stress leads to an increase in the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress the production of testosterone.
- Lack of sleep: The lack of sleep can negatively affect the production of testosterone. Studies show that even a short -term restriction of sleep can lead to a decrease in hormone levels.
- Inal meals: A deficiency of important nutrients, such as zinc, vitamin D and magnesium, can negatively affect the production of testosterone.
- Alcohol and drugs: Alcohol abuse and drug use can suppress testosterone production.
- Egg injuries: Yaichka injuries or surgical egg removal can lead to a decrease or complete stop of testosterone production.
- Genetic diseases: Some genetic diseases, such as Klainfelter syndrome, can cause hypogonadism (insufficient testosterone production).
1.3 Symptoms of low level of testosterone (hypogonadism):
Symptoms of low level of testosterone can be diverse and vary depending on the age and individual characteristics of the body. It is important to note that the presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate hypogonadism, and a doctor’s consultation and laboratory tests are necessary to make a diagnosis.
- Libido decrease: Reducing sex drive is one of the most common symptoms of low level of testosterone.
- Erectile dysfunction: Difficulties with achieving or maintaining an erection can be associated with a lack of testosterone.
- Reducing muscle mass: Reducing muscle mass and strength, despite the previous level of physical activity.
- Increase fat mass: Increase fat mass, especially in the abdomen.
- Fatigue and weakness: Constant fatigue, weakness and decrease in energy level.
- Depression and irritability: Mood swings, depression, irritability and decrease in motivation.
- Reducing bone density: Increasing the risk of fractures due to a decrease in bone density (osteoporosis).
- Reducing hair growth: Reducing hair growth on the face and body.
- Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): In rare cases, breast augmentation due to the imbalance between testosterone and estrogen.
- Infertility: Difficulties with the conception of a child due to a decrease in the quantity and quality of sperm.
- Sleep problems: Sleep disorders such as insomnia or apnea sleep.
- Reducing concentration of attention and memory: Difficulties with concentration, worsening memory and cognitive functions.
- Tucks of heat: In rare cases, the ebb of heat, similar to those that women experience during the period of menopause.
1.4 Diagnostics of low level of testosterone:
Diagnosis of low level of testosterone includes a history of anamnesis, physicine examination and laboratory tests. It is important to consult a doctor-endocrinologist or urologist for diagnosis and prescribing the appropriate treatment.
- Anamnesis: The doctor will ask questions about your health, symptoms, medications and lifestyle.
- Physical inspection: The doctor will conduct a physical examination, which may include an assessment of hair growth, the size of the testicle and the presence of gynecomastia.
- Blood test for testosterone: To determine the level of testosterone in the blood, it is necessary to pass a blood test. Usually measure the level of general testosterone and free testosterone. The analysis should be taken in the morning (between 8 and 10 hours), since the level of testosterone is the highest at this time. To confirm the diagnosis, a second analysis may be required.
- Other blood tests: The doctor may prescribe other blood tests to exclude other diseases that can cause a decrease in testosterone levels, such as analysis of the level of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin and other hormones.
Chapter 2: Dans to increase testosterone: what is it and how they work
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) to increase testosterone are products containing various vitamins, minerals, herbs and other substances that are believed to help increase the level of testosterone in the body. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not drugs and are not subject to the same strict test and regulation as medicines. The effectiveness of many dietary supplements to increase testosterone has not been proved by clinical studies, and before their use it is necessary to consult a doctor.
2.1 Classification of dietary supplement to increase testosterone:
Bades to increase testosterone can be divided into several categories depending on their composition and the alleged mechanism of action:
- Vitamins and minerals: Some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and selenium, play an important role in the development of testosterone. The deficiency of these substances can lead to a decrease in the level of the hormone. Bades containing these vitamins and minerals can be useful for maintaining the normal level of testosterone, especially if there is a deficiency.
- Plant extracts: Some plant extracts, such as Tribulus Terrestris (Tribulus Terrestris), ecdisterone, Ashvaganda and Tongkat Ali, are traditionally used to increase libido and improve sports results. It is believed that they can stimulate testosterone production or block its transformation into estrogen.
- D-asparaginic acid (D-ASPARTIC ACID, DAA): D-paraginic acid is an amino acid that plays a role in regulating the production of hormones, including testosterone. Some studies show that DAA can increase testosterone levels in men with a low hormone level.
- Aromatase inhibitors: Aromatase is an enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen. Aromatase inhibitors block the action of this enzyme, which can lead to an increase in testosterone levels. However, it should be noted that aromatase inhibitors can have side effects and should be used with caution.
- Lutheinizing hormone booster (LH): Lutheinizing hormone stimulates the testicles to the production of testosterone. Some dietary supplements contain substances that can stimulate LH production, thereby increasing testosterone levels.
2.2 mechanisms for the action of dietary supplement to increase testosterone:
The alleged mechanisms of the action of dietary supplements to increase testosterone vary depending on the composition of the product:
- Stimulation of testosterone production: Some dietary supplements, such as tribulus terrestris and Tongkat Ali, can stimulate testosterone production in testicles. However, the mechanism of action of these substances has not been fully studied, and the results of research are contradictory.
- Blocking the transformation of testosterone into estrogen: Aromatase inhibitors block the action of the aromatase enzyme, which turns testosterone into estrogen. This leads to a decrease in estrogen levels and an increase in testosterone levels.
- Increasing the level of luteinizing hormone (LH): Some dietary supplements can stimulate LH production in the pituitary gland. LH stimulates the testicles to the production of testosterone.
- Egg support support: Some vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and selenium, are necessary for the normal functioning of testicles and testosterone production. The deficiency of these substances can negatively affect the production of the hormone.
- Reducing the level of cortisol: Chronic stress leads to an increase in the level of cortisol, which may suppress the production of testosterone. Some dietary supplements, such as Ashvaganda, can reduce the level of cortisol, thereby contributing to an increase in testosterone levels.
- Improving blood circulation in the testicles: Improving blood circulation in the testicles can help improve their functioning and production of testosterone. Some dietary supplements, such as L-Arginine, can improve blood circulation.
2.3 The most popular dietary supplement to increase testosterone and their features:
- Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Tribulus Terrytris is a plant that is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to increase libido and improve sports results. It is believed that it can stimulate the production of testosterone, but scientific data about this are contradictory. Some studies have not revealed a significant influence of T T T T T runs on the level of testosterone. Nevertheless, Tertrix tribulus can have a positive effect on libido and erectile function.
- Tongkat Ali (Tongkat Ali, Eurycoma Longifolia): Tongat Ali is a plant that grows in Southeast Asia. It is traditionally used to increase libido, improve sports results and reduce stress. Some studies show that Tongkat Ali can increase testosterone levels, improve sperm quality and increase muscle mass. Tongkat Ali can also have an adaptogenic effect, helping the body adapt to stress.
- D-asparaginic acid (D-ASPARTIC ACID, DAA): D-paraginic acid is an amino acid that plays a role in regulating the production of hormones, including testosterone. Some studies show that DAA can increase testosterone levels in men with a low hormone level. However, the DAA effect can be temporary, and the level of testosterone can return to the original level after the termination of the additive.
- Ashwaganda (Ashwagandha): Ashvaganda is a plant that is used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress levels, improve cognitive functions and increase energy levels. Ashvagand can also increase testosterone levels, reduce cortisol levels and improve sperm quality. Ashvaganda has adaptogenic properties and helps the body adapt to stress.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the development of testosterone. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a decrease in hormone levels. Vitamin D intake can increase the level of testosterone, especially in people with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is also important for the health of bones, immune system and overall well -being.
- Zinc: Zinc is necessary for the normal functioning of the testicles and the production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in hormone levels. Taking zinc can increase the level of testosterone, especially in people with zinc deficiency. Zinc is also important for the immune system, healing of wounds and health of the skin.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in many biochemical processes in the body, including testosterone production. Magnesium deficiency can lead to a decrease in hormone levels. Taking magnesium can increase the level of testosterone, especially in people with magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is also important for the health of muscles, nervous system and cardiovascular system.
- Ecdisteron: Ecadisterone is a steroid compound contained in some plants and insects. Some studies show that eccadisterone can increase muscle mass and strength, but its effect on testosterone levels has not been proven. Eccadisterone is often positioned as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids, but its effectiveness and safety require further study.
2.4 important factors that should be taken into account when choosing a dietary supplement to increase testosterone:
- Composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the ingredients that, as you know, can affect the level of testosterone. Pay attention to the dosage of each ingredient.
- Quality: Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products. Look for products that are certified by independent organizations such as NSF International or USP.
- Scientific data: Study scientific studies that confirm the effectiveness of ingredients contained in the dietary supplement. Do not trust advertising statements that are not backed up by scientific evidence.
- Reviews: Read the reviews of other users to find out about their experience in using dietary supplements. Pay attention to the reviews that relate to the efficiency, side effects and quality of the product.
- Safety: Make sure the dietary supplement is safe for you. Consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take other medicines.
- Price: Compare the prices of various dietary supplements and select the product that corresponds to your budget. However, you should not save on quality, since cheap dietary supplements can be ineffective or contain harmful substances.
- Output form: Bades are produced in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, powders and liquids. Choose the form of release, which is most convenient for you.
- Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions indicated on the Bad packaging. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as this can lead to side effects.
- Individual features: Consider your individual characteristics, such as age, health and lifestyle. Not all dietary supplements are suitable for all men.
Chapter 3: Safety and side effects of dietary supplement to increase testosterone
Before taking any dietary supplement to increase testosterone, it is important to understand potential risks and side effects. Despite the fact that dietary supplements are considered safer than medicines, they can still cause undesirable reactions, especially if there are incorrectly used or in the presence of certain medical conditions.
3.1 General side effects of dietary supplements:
General side effects of dietary supplements can include:
- Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, abdominal pain.
- Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke edema, anaphylactic shock (in rare cases).
- Headaches and dizziness:
- Insomnia or drowsiness:
- Mood changes: Irritability, anxiety, depression.
- Increase in blood pressure:
- Improving cholesterol levels:
- Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with medicines that you take by changing their effectiveness or causing side effects.
3.2 specific side effects depending on the ingredients:
Side effects can also depend on specific ingredients contained in the dietary supplement:
- TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, an increase in the prostate gland (in rare cases).
- Tongkat Ali: Insomnia, irritability, anxiety.
- D-paraginic acid: Headaches, irritability, mood changes.
- Ashwaganda: Drowsiness, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Vitamin D: Nausea, vomiting, weakness, increased level of calcium in the blood.
- Zinc: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, copper deficiency.
- Magnesium: Diarrhea, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Ecdisteron: There are not enough data on side effects.
3.3 Interaction with drugs:
Bades can interact with drugs that you take by changing their effectiveness or causing side effects. For example:
- Anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin): Some dietary supplements, such as vitamin E and garlic, can dilute blood and enhance the effect of anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Antidepressants: Some dietary supplements, such as St. John’s wort, can interact with antidepressants, changing their effectiveness or causing side effects.
- Diabetes Medicines: Some dietary supplements, such as ginseng, can reduce blood sugar and enhance the effect of drugs for diabetes, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Medicines for cardiovascular diseases: Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs from cardiovascular diseases, changing their effectiveness or causing side effects.
3.4 when you should stop taking a dietary supplement and see a doctor:
Stop taking the dietary supplement immediately and consult a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Serious allergic reactions: Face edema, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, urticaria.
- Strong abdominal pain:
- Bleeding:
- Fainting:
- Strong dizziness:
- Changes in heart rhythm:
- Yellowing of the skin or eye: (A sign of liver problems).
3.5 who should avoid taking dietary supplement to increase testosterone:
The following categories of people should avoid taking dietary supplements to increase testosterone without prior consultation with a doctor:
- ** Men with prostate cancer or p